The Austin City Limits Music Festival swung into gear on Friday, October 3, drawing crowds to Zilker Park for what promises to be another defining chapter in the event's storied run. Now in its 20th year across two weekends, ACL 2025 features a sprawling array of artists that spans country twang to indie rock grit, though not without its last-minute twists. Headliners like Hozier and Luke Combs anchor the first weekend, with Combs closing out Friday night under the Texas sky.
Indeed, the daily schedule kicks off early each day, from noon onward, across eight stages that buzz with overlapping sets. Friday's slate includes Sabrina Carpenter on the main stage around 5:30 p.m., followed by sets from Doechii and The Strokes building tension toward Combs at 8 p.m. Saturday shifts gears with Cage the Elephant and Empire of the Sun, while Sunday spotlights John Summit's electronic pulse and Feid's Latin rhythms. The second weekend, October 10-12, mirrors much of this but swaps in The Killers as the Sunday headliner after Doja Cat's abrupt pullout—a move that left some fans grumbling about the festival's contingency planning.
However, the lineup's breadth remains a draw, boasting over 100 acts including T-Pain, MK.gee, and rising names like Djo. Tickets, starting at $300 for general admission, sold out fast, pushing resale prices higher amid Austin's swelling traffic woes. For those not braving the heat—temps hit the mid-80s—Hulu streams select performances live, a smart nod to broader access. Bag policies stay strict, no coolers allowed, and reusable water bottles are encouraged amid sustainability pushes.
Moreover, navigation tips abound: shuttles from downtown ease the park's perimeter jams, though rideshares surge in cost. As ACL navigates its dual-weekend format, blending massive crowds with intimate vibes, it underscores the festival's enduring pull on music lovers everywhere.
Yet in this whirlwind of sound and sweat, what enduring mark will 2025 leave on Austin's live scene?